Property Resource Guide
for Groups & Troops
Girl Scouts San Diego
August 2021
Reservation Guidelines ......................... 2-3
Property Descriptions .........................4-18
Balboa Campus ...................................... 5-8
Escondido Program Center ................ 9-10
North Coastal Service Center ..................11
Camp Whispering Oaks .................... 12-14
Camp Winacka ................................... 15-18
Site Capacities ................................... 19-20
Safety Procedures ............................. 21-25
Training Requirements .................... 26-27
Table of Contents
Property Resource Guide
This resource is for day and overnight use of Girl Scouts San Diego properties by members of
Girl Scouts San Diego, members of Girl Scouts of the USA, or an approved collaborator,
community partner, non-profit, government or for-profit organization.
Girl Scout Mission
Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a
better place.
Girl Scout Promise
On my honor, I will try:
To serve God* and my country,
To help people at all times,
And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
Girl Scout Law
I will do my best to be
honest and fair,
friendly and helpful,
considerate and caring,
courageous and strong, and
responsible for what I say and do,
and to
respect myself and others,
respect authority,
use resources wisely,
make the world a better place, and
be a sister to every Girl Scout.
*The word "God" can be interpreted in a number of ways, depending on one's spiritual beliefs. When reciting the
Girl Scout Promise, it’s OK to replace the word "God" with whatever word your spiritual beliefs dictate.
Reservation Guidelines
Girl Scout San Diego members
Reserve online. Please ask your service unit activity consultant about readiness and training prior
to making a reservation. For most events and campouts, select “Girl Scout San Diego Members” as
your price group. Troops that hold regular troop meetings on our property may select “Staff &
Approved No-Charge Rentals” to rent space for their troop meetings at no charge.
Service unit encampment directors
Service units do not reserve encampments online; instead, dates are assigned through an annual
lottery process. Encampment directors confirm specific usage with Girl Scouts San Diego staff
prior to receiving an invoice.
Outside user groups
Outside user groups are not be eligible to reserve our properties or activities online. Instead,
complete usage survey in DoubleKnot to indicate interest in making a reservation. Reservations
are subject to availability and approval by Girl Scouts San Diego staff.
How to reserve online
1. Go to sdgirlscouts.org/properties to browse properties.
2. Click either “Check available dates” or “Check available facilities” for the facility you would
like to reserve.
3. Select the correct price group and follow the system prompts to complete payment.
Payment information
• Meetings: Payment is due at the time of reservation.
• Camping and activities: A 20 percent non-refundable deposit is required at the time of
reservation. Balance is due in full 30 days prior to your reservation date.
Confirmation information
• You will receive an email receipt immediately after completing your online reservation.
Review this email carefully to ensure your reservation is complete and accurate.
• Within a few weeks, you’ll receive an emailed informational packet with important details,
also available in the forms section of our website.
Cancellations and refunds
The 20 percent deposit for camping and activities is non-refundable.
Cancellation of a reservation must be received in writing at least 30 days prior to reservation date,
or 60 days for groups renting the entire site. If this deadline has been met, everything but the
deposit will be refunded. If the deadline is not met, no refund will be granted.
Girl Scouts San Diego reserves the right to cancel a reservation if final payment is not made. A full
refund or another date will be issued if the site is closed due to hazardous conditions.
Keys
Keys must be picked up prior to your reservation for our Balboa Campus, Escondido Program
Center, or North Coastal Service Center. No key pickup is required for Winacka and Whispering
Oaks. You can check out keys at the Balboa Campus Resource Center during regular business
hours Monday through Friday, and during specific times at Escondido and North Coastal. If you
are unable to pick up keys prior to your event, please contact propertyreservations@sdgirlscouts.org
.
Cleaning and additional charges
All groups renting our properties are required to clean up after themselves prior to checkout. You
may be billed for additional cleaning or repair charges. If charges are left unpaid, our council
reserves the right to deny future access to the responsible party.
To ensure no additional charges are incurred:
• Clean up after your group thoroughly.
• Complete paper or online check-out survey.
• Return all keys within 24 hours of checkout time. Keys may be returned in the mail drop
box or dropped off at the Balboa or Escondido resource centers during regular business
hours.
• Report any damages to buildings, grounds or furniture immediately.
Additional information about reservations
1. All correspondence will be with the main contact on the reservation.
2. Please reserve only the space you will use to ensure maximum use of our facilities. You
may want to share a cabin or unit with one or more other troops, in which case, make just
one reservation for all troops together.
3. Make sure you have the appropriate training for the activities and type of camping you will
be doing. Visit sdgirlscouts.org/training or work with your service unit activity consultant
to ensure you follow the proper progression.
4. It is the responsibility of the main contact to notify propertyreservations@sdgirlscouts.org
as soon as possible of any changes in information on the reservation.
5. If you are having trouble making payments on time, or are considering cancelling, please
contact us. We may be able to help!
6. To aid in communication between groups sharing camping facilities (units, levels), we may
give your phone number and email to others using the facility on the same dates, unless
you request otherwise.
Insurance and risk management information
Girl Scouts San Diego members
• You must purchase additional insurance if:
o Any non-members are participating
o Your stay is longer than two nights
• Visit sdgirlscouts.org/activityinsurance for enrollment forms.
• For any overnights, or activities considered “higher risk” (activities that require approval),
you must submit an Activity Approval form to your service unit activity consultant. The
activity consultant can provide guidance on any other forms needed.
Outside groups (out-of-council, nonprofit, etc.)
Non-Girl-Scout groups must provide proof of liability insurance coverage, and proof of nonprofit
status. Insurance required is general liability with a combined single limit for bodily injury and
property damage of one million dollars ($1,000,000). Girl Scouts San Diego must be named as
additional insured party. An original copy of the certificate of insurance must be received with
final payment to verify policy and limits.
Property Descriptions: General
We offer reservations at the following facilities for meetings, camping and activities:
Balboa Campus
(San Diego)
Meeting rooms, modern cabins, tent sites, archery
Suitable for large and small groups
Escondido Program Center
(Escondido)
Modern lodge/meeting room, tent sites, archery
Best suited for small groups
North Coastal Service
Center
(Carlsbad)
Meeting room; no camping facilities
Best suited for small groups
Camp Winacka
(Julian)
Modern cabins, rustic cabins, pool, archery, fishing, canoeing
Camp Whispering Oaks
(Julian)
Modern cabins, tent sites, archery
In order to reserve property, you must:
• Complete a reservation online or complete the reservation request survey (if applicable)
• Be a member of Girl Scouts San Diego, a member of Girl Scouts of the USA, or an approved
collaborator, community partner, nonprofit, government or for-profit organization
• Ensure proper training and insurance (if applicable)
• Comply with contract
North Coastal
Service Center
Camps Winacka
& Whispering Oaks
Balboa Campus
Escondido
Program Center
Property Description:
Balboa Campus
Location 1231 Upas St., San Diego, CA 92103-5199
Located in the northwest corner of Balboa Park, our Balboa Campus serves as Girl Scouts San
Diego’s headquarters and offers space for meetings, camping and activities. Each of four levels
(the Upper Level, and levels 1, 2 and 3) is secured through tall fencing and locked gates.
Meeting space
Jo Dee and Glenn Leadership Center
The Jo Dee and Glenn Jacob Leadership Center has four rooms: Favrot, Colonell, Clark, and Baker-
Baum, each with tables, chairs and Wi-Fi. Favrot and Colonell, both carpeted, have an adjustable
wall between them that can be left open to create one large room or closed to make two smaller
rooms. Clark and Baker-Baum, floored with linoleum, also have a wall allowing them to be used as
one large room or two smaller rooms. A projector and screen are available only in Favrot and
Baker-Baum. All rooms have access to a shared kitchenette and restrooms in the hall.
Florence Burnham Hall
Florence Burnham Hall is a large, carpeted room with round tables, chairs, a full kitchen and
restrooms. There is a projector and screen available for use, and the building is equipped
with Wi-Fi.
Cabins
Cabins 1, 2 and 3 are available to rent by the hour for meetings or programs. There are tables and
chairs available for setup, and all cabins have a full kitchen, restrooms, outdoor picnic space,
campfire rings and flag pole.
Camping
Cabins 1 and 2
Cabin 1 and Cabin 2 are carpeted, brick cabins with mattresses
available for sleeping on the floor. Both are heated, with flush
toilets, hot showers and full kitchens equipped with an electric
stove and oven, microwave, two refrigerators, and assorted basic
kitchenware. Per the City of San Diego, there is no cooking of raw
meat indoors
.
Outside, each has access to a picnic area, wood fire
barbeques, and a campfire ring. The outside area and at least one
refrigerator must be shared with any campers at the tent site on
the same level. Cleaning supplies, toilet paper, brooms and mops
are provided.
Cabin 3
The newly reconstructed Cabin 3 has two stories. The upstairs is
carpeted, with mattresses available for sleeping on the floor.
Downstairs is tiled and has tables and chairs available to set up.
The cabin is heated and air conditioned, with flush toilets and hot
showers. It has a full kitchen equipped with a large fridge, large
freezer, oven, stove, microwave, and assorted basic cookware. Per
the City of San Diego, there is no cooking of raw meat indoors
.
Outside is a picnic area and campfire ring, as well as activity
space other renters may have reserved. Cleaning supplies, toilet
paper, brooms and mops are provided.
Tent sites
Tent sites 1 and 2 are adjacent to the cabins on the same
levels. When renting a tent site, you have access to flush
toilets and heated showers, one refrigerator, and a wood
fire barbeque. Each site also has access to a picnic area
and a campfire ring as well, which are shared with any
campers at the cabin on the same level.
Activities
Fran Styles Archery Range
Located on Level 3, the archery range can be rented and used by a certified archery instructor.
Shared space
Groce Family Tree House
Located on Level 3, the tree house is a multi-level program area offering participants a unique
space for doing badge work or just exploring. Children must be supervised at all times. You can
use the tree house when renting any cabin or meeting space.
Amphitheater
Located on Level 1, the outdoor amphitheater features concrete seating and lighting for the stage
area, and may be used in conjunction with any reservation at our Balboa Campus.
Upper Level
Sullivan Square (between the Jo Dee and Glenn Leadership Center and Florence Burnham Hall)
and the grassy area on the south side of the parking lot are available for shared use.
Parking
The main parking lot is on the upper level. Spaces for a limited number of cars are available on
each cabin level. Park overflow cars on the upper level lot after unloading gear. When parking on
cabin levels, back in so that the lots can be evacuated quickly in an emergency.
Property Description:
Escondido Program Center
Location 3050 Las Palmas, Escondido, CA 92025
Located in the heart of Kit Carson Park, the Escondido Program Center hosts a resource center
and Girl Scout store, as well as camping and meeting spaces. The facility is secured through
fencing and locked gates and is patrolled by the local police department.
Meeting space
Main Lodge
The Main Lodge is a large, carpeted room with tables and
chairs. Amenities include Wi-Fi, kitchenette, covered porch,
projector and screen.
Camping
Main Lodge
The heated, wooden lodge features flush toilets and hot showers, inside fireplace, mattresses for
sleeping on the floor, tables and chairs. The kitchenette is equipped with a refrigerator, electric
stove top (no oven) and small microwave oven. Cleaning supplies, toilet paper, broom and mops
are provided. A back porch with canvas sides is available for shared use with tent campers.
Tent sites
Tent campers share the indoor bathroom and refrigerator with lodge campers. A barbecue and
two picnic tables are available for each of the three tent areas.
Activities
Archery
The archery range can be rented and used by a certified archery instructor.
Shared use
Playground
There is a playground available for use with adult supervision. Access may be restricted when the
archery range is in use.
Parking
There is limited parking inside the fence of the program center. When this lot is full, you may park
in the large public parking lot adjacent the program center.
Property Description:
Camp Whispering Oaks
Location 4949 Pine Hills Road, Julian, CA 92036 (4000 ft. elevation)
Camp Whispering Oaks is a 1.5 hour drive from San Diego, near Julian. It is a wooded, rural site
with camping and activities available for rental. A ranger or camp host is on site whenever
campers are present. This site is not available for rent June-August due to resident camp.
Camping
Camp Whispering Oaks has three distinct camping areas surrounding a large play field. Cabin
accommodations are modern, and tent sites are private but still near the main camp. All cabins
include access to a detached shared bathroom building with flush toilets and hot showers, a fire
ring, outdoor kitchenette and a central porch. Activities center around the lodge and play field.
Black Oak, Engelmann Oak and Live Oak units
(modern cabins)
Choose from three distinct units, each in a different
part of camp and consisting of large, one-room cabins
with electricity, heating, air conditioning, and wooden
floors. Campers sleep on bunk beds with camp
mattresses. Bathrooms, in a separate building with
flush toilets and hot showers, are shared among the
three cabins in each unit. Attached to the bathroom
building is a covered porch with picnic tables.
Campers also share access to a small outdoor
kitchenette with a sink, four-burner gas stove, rustic
outdoor woodstoves, a refrigerator for each cabin, and
assorted basic cookware.
The three Black Oak cabins are close to the camp entrance, lodge
and ranger’s residence.
The three Engelmann Oak cabins are next to the sports field,
nearest the amphitheater.
The three Live Oak cabins are easiest to get to by the road, with
the most ideal wheelchair accessibility.
Tent sites
Tent sites 1 and 2 are open areas for pitching tents, with access to running water. Each have a
single portable toilet, picnic tables, rustic outdoor woodstoves and a small campfire ring.
Activities
Archery
The archery range can be rented and used by a certified archery instructor.
Shared use
Main lodge
The lodge, a large, heated building is equipped with fireplace, tables, chairs and restrooms. The
lodge deck is currently under construction and will not be available for use through 2022.
Main campfire ring
The main campfire ring seats approximately 150
people on wooden benches. There is a large campfire
pit and cut wood available. It is fully outdoors and
located by the field.
Field and sports shed
Located at the center of camp near the flag pole, the
play field is used for active games and sports. A shed
near the field houses some basic sports equipment,
such as balls, cones and hula hoops.
Playground
There are two small playgrounds available for use
with adult supervision.
Basketball court
A concrete basketball court with hoops and a tetherball pole is located below the main lodge.
Parking
Three main parking lots provide approximately 50 spaces for the entire camp to share. Vehicles
may only be parked near cabins for loading/unloading and emergency purposes.
Hiking
Trails at Whispering Oaks are well
marked and correspond to a large
map in the central lodge. Hiking
information can be found at
sdgirlscouts.org/camphikes and on
printed materials at camp. Popular
hiking destinations include
Inspiration Point, Chocolate Pond
and Dehr Creek Trail. Check in with
a ranger or camp host to get details
on what trails are currently open
for use.
Property Description:
Camp Winacka
Location 4720 Boulder Creek Road, Julian, CA 92036 (3,800 ft. elevation)
Camp Winacka is a 1.5 hour drive from San Diego, near Julian. It is a wooded, rural site with
camping and activities available for rental. A ranger or camp host is on site whenever campers are
present. This site is not available for rent June-August due to summer resident camp.
Camping
At this traditional camp, eight distinct living units are tucked in the trees surrounding large, open
meadows. Four of the living units provide modern accommodations with mattresses on the floor
in a heated lodge. Four provide rustic accommodations with mattresses on bunk beds in screened,
open-air cabins with no electricity or heat. All of the living units include access to flush toilets and
hot showers, a fire ring, and a lit central porch with picnic tables. Activities center around the
open air lodge, swimming pool, lake and nature center. Enjoy numerous hiking trails and several
excellent lookout points.
Mountain View and Shady Glen (modern cabins)
Mountain View and Shady Glen are large brick lodges with electricity, heating and laminate floors.
There is indoor access to flush toilets and hot showers. Campers have access to mattresses for
sleeping on the floor, indoor fireplace, rustic outdoor woodstoves, small fire ring, one refrigerator,
large outdoor deck for program space or outdoor sleeping.
→ The Mountain View cabin is close to a parking lot and is near the campfire ring and Upper
Lake.
→ The Shady Glen is a secluded cabin tucked back under the trees near the center of camp.
Meadow Vista and Oak Knoll (modern cabins)
Meadow Vista and Oak Knoll are large brick lodges
with electricity, heating and laminate floors. There
is indoor access to flush toilets and hot showers.
Campers have access to mattresses for sleeping on
the floor, indoor fireplace, outdoor wood grills, a
small kitchen with refrigerator, sink, and electric
stove/oven. There is one small attached room with
two bunk beds.
→ The Meadow Vista cabin is above the
ranger’s workshop and has a small kitchen
inside.
→ The Oak Knoll cabin is closest to the main
lodge and also has a small kitchen inside.
Hilltop (rustic cabins)
Hilltop cabins have wood floors and permanent roofs with canvas tent sides and screen doors;
they do not have electricity or heat. Campers sleep on bunk beds with camp mattresses. The six
Hilltop cabins are arranged 10-50 ft. from a shared central porch with picnic tables, rustic outdoor
woodstoves, small fire ring, flush toilets and hot showers.
Morningside (rustic cabins)
Morningside cabins have wood floors and permanent roofs with screened sides and doors; they do
not have electricity or heat. Campers sleep on bunk beds with camp mattresses. Small changing
rooms divide each cabin in half, with separate outdoor access to each side. The five Morningside
cabins are arranged 10-50 ft. from a shared central porch with picnic tables, rustic outdoor
woodstoves, small fire ring, flush toilets and hot showers.
Hideaway (rustic cabins)
Hideaway cabins have wood floors and permanent roofs with screened sides and a skylight; they
do not have electricity or heat. Campers sleep on bunk beds with camp mattresses. The five
Hideaway cabins are arranged 10-50 ft. from a shared central porch with picnic tables, rustic
outdoor woodstoves, small fire ring, covered fireplace, flush toilets and hot showers.
Rocky Ridge (rustic cabins)
Rocky Ridge cabins have wood floors and permanent
roofs with screened windows and wood shutters; they
do not have electricity or heat. Campers sleep on bunk
beds with camp mattresses. The five Rocky Ridge
cabins are arranged 10-50 ft. from a shared central
porch with picnic tables, rustic outdoor woodstoves,
small fire ring, covered fireplace, flush toilets and hot
showers.
Activities
Archery
The archery range can be rented and used by a certified archery instructor.
Fishing/lake access
Upper Lake at Camp Winacka is stocked with blue gill, bass and catfish for catch-and-release
fishing. Booking a session (typically 2 hours) includes use of 12-16 fishing poles, accompanying
gear and access to the lake. Groups must bring their own experienced teacher.
Swimming pool
Located at Camp Winacka, adjacent to the lodge, the pool is available for use with proper
supervision. See Safety Activity Checkpoints for the lifeguard and swim watcher ratios. Must be
specifically reserved; pick up keys from the ranger. Pool is open May through September.
Shared Use
Main lodge
The lodge is a large climate-controlled building with a fireplace, small stage, tables, benches and
restrooms. The lodge is currently under construction and will not be available for use through
March 2022.
Main campfire ring
The main campfire ring seats approximately 250 people on wooden benches. There is a large
campfire pit and cut wood available. It is fully outdoors and located by the lake.
Environmental center
The environmental center is a winterized straw bale building near the center of camp. There are
tables and chairs and a large shaded porch with picnic tables. There are no restrooms.
Geico Welcome Center
The Geico Welcome Center is a winterized straw bale building at the front of camp near the
parking lots. There are tables, chairs and restrooms.
The Zone Play Field
Located behind Hilltop, the Zone is a large, grassy field for running games and nighttime
stargazing.
Hiking
Trails at Winacka are well marked and correspond to a large map in the central lodge. Hiking
information can be found at sdgirlscouts.org/camphikes and on printed materials at camp.
Popular hiking destinations include Panorama Point, Observation Tower, Sunset Rock and Lower
Lake. Check in with a ranger or camp host to get details on what trails are currently open for use.
Parking
Two main parking lots plus several overflow areas provide approximately 70 spaces for the entire
camp to share. Luggage service is provided for rustic cabins, which are not accessible by private
vehicle; private vehicles are only allowed on paved roads.
Site Capacities:
Balboa Campus: San Diego
Jo Dee and Glenn Jacob Leadership Center
(LC): 4 Meeting Rooms
40 people per room (day use)
Florence Burnham Hall (FBH) 80 people (day use)
Cabins (includes kitchen and restroom
access)
• Cabin 1
• Cabin 2
• Cabin 3
Cabins 1 or Cabin 2:
70 people (day use)
36 people (overnight)
Cabin 3:
60 people (day use)
42 people (overnight)
Tent sites (with restroom access)
• Tent Site 1
• Tent Site 2
122 people (day use)
36 people (overnight)
Activities
• Fran Styles Archery Range
Activity capacities vary by program selection.
Total maximum capacities
336 people (day use)
186 people (overnight)
Escondido Program Center: Kit Carson Park
Main Lodge
120 people (day use)
45 people (overnight)
Tent sites (with restroom access): 3 sites
(West, Center, East)
20 people per site (day or overnight)
Activities: Archery Range Activity capacities vary by program selection.
Total maximum capacities
120 people (day use)
105 people (overnight)
North Coastal Service Center: Carlsbad
Training room 46 people (day use)
Camp Whispering Oaks: Julian
Main Lodge/Dining Hall 51 people (day use)
Modern Cabins: Black Oak Unit (3 cabins)
Cabins A, B, C: 16 people each (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 48 (overnight)
Modern Cabins: Engelmann Oak Unit
(3 cabins)
Cabins A, B, C: 16 people each (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 48 (overnight)
Camp Whispering Oaks: Julian — continued
Modern Cabins: Live Oak Unit (3 cabins)
Cabins A, B, C: 16 people each (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 48 (overnight)
Tent Site 1 24 people (overnight)
Tent Site 2 20 people (overnight)
Activities
• Archery
Activity capacities vary by program selection.
Total maximum capacities
150 people (day use)*
188 people (overnight)
*Up to 140 additional day users may be present on site,
but cannot be accommodated in the main lodge.
Camp Winacka: Julian
Main Lodge/Dining Hall 96 people (day use)
Modern Cabin: Meadow Vista 24 people (day or overnight)
Modern Cabin: Oak Knoll 24 people (day or overnight)
Modern Cabin: Shady Glen 36 people (day or overnight)
Modern Cabin: Mountain View 36 people (day or overnight)
Rustic Cabins: Morning Side Unit (5 cabins)
Cabins 1-4: 8 people each (overnight)
Cabin 5: 6 people (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 38 (overnight)
Rustic Cabins: Hideaway Unit (5 cabins)
Cabins 1-4: 8 people each (overnight)
Cabin 5: 6 people (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 38 (overnight)
Rustic Cabins: Hilltop Unit (6 cabins)
Cabins 1-6: 8 people (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 48 (overnight)
Rustic Cabins: Rocky Ridge Unit (5 cabins)
Cabins 1-5: 8 people each (overnight)
Total unit capacity: 40 (overnight)
Activities
• Pool
• Archery
• Fishing
Activity capacities vary by program selection.
Total maximum capacities
240 people (day use)*
200 people (overnight)
*Up to 100 additional day users may be present on site,
but cannot be accommodated in the main lodge.
Safety Procedures
All groups using Girl Scouts San Diego property are advised to have the following with them:
• Roster listing name, address and emergency contact information for all participants
• List of all participants with known allergies, health conditions and activity restrictions, or
other conditions requiring accommodation
• Signed permission to seek emergency treatment for all minors
Alcohol and drugs
Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Girl Scout owned or operated sites at Girl Scout-
sponsored activities, except for adult-only functions with the written approval of the CEO. Drugs
of any kind are prohibited.
Bats
If you experience close indoor contact with bats during your activity, remove everyone from the
space or building and notify onsite staff or the council emergency line. If anyone makes physical
contact with bats, notify both Girl Scouts San Diego and the County Health Department for
guidance. Depending on circumstances, medical attention or further evaluation may be needed.
Bedbugs
Anyone with an active bedbug infestation should not be allowed to attend overnights. If they have
recently been treated for bedbugs, take precautionary measures by asking them to dry all clothing
and bedding on high heat and bring in a garbage bag.
Earthquake
In the event of an earthquake, move quickly away from buildings, utility poles and power lines. Do
not re-enter any building until you receive permission from site staff or authorities. If you are
inside during an earthquake, stand in a doorway or under a heavy piece of furniture such as a
desk or bed. Stay away from windows. Crouch and cover your head and neck with your arms.
Electrical storm
The best place to be during a lightning storm is inside a modern building or car. When you hear
thunder in the distance, it’s time to move indoors. Stay indoors for at least 15 minutes after the
last sound of thunder. Contact the event director or property staff if there are any electrical
problems.
Emergency transportation
You must keep at least one vehicle in operational order available at all times. This vehicle must not
be used for other jobs and must always have enough fuel to reach primary emergency locations.
Evacuation
The event director must determine an emergency signal and designated meeting spot in advance,
and communicate this information to all adults in pre-event materials. A typical signal is three
long blasts of a car horn or air horn, repeated until everyone has gathered. A typical meeting place
is a camp flag pole.
Upon hearing the emergency signal, each troop or unit will gather immediately and proceed
together to the designated meeting spot. There, the event director or designated person will
conduct a head count and communicate further instructions.
If it is necessary to immediately evacuate camp, load campers into every available vehicle and
shuttle them to a safety zone designated by the event director. Other than medically necessary
items, leave belongings behind. Always hold a practice emergency drill as soon as practical once
most participants have arrived.
Fire
The adults in charge are responsible for conducting a fire drill with campers the first day of any
program on Girl Scouts San Diego property. If you see a fire, pull the fire alarm immediately and
remove all participants from danger. If the fire is small, an adult may attempt to extinguish using
one of the provided fire extinguisher or hose. Report the size, location and nature of the fire to
local authorities by calling 911. Contact site staff and group leader immediately.
Firearms, hazardous materials and equipment
Firearms, air guns, weapons, ammunition or explosives are not allowed on Girl Scouts San Diego
properties at any time. If you bring tools of any kind (power or hand) or flammable liquids such as
gasoline, paint thinner, etc., please notify our staff so materials can be in locked storage when not
in use. These materials should be used only by trained and experienced individuals.
First aid supplies and equipment
Girl Scouts San Diego does not supply these items. All groups and troops must supply their own
first aid/CPR trained adult and first aid kit to camp. First aiders must be trained by a nationally
recognized provider. See Volunteer Essentials, Chapter 4 for requirements.
Illness
Be on the watch for dehydration, sunburn, heat illness, cold challenge and altitude sickness. Most
illnesses can be prevented by drinking plenty of water, wearing the right clothing for the weather,
avoiding the sun at midday, wearing sunscreen, resting regularly and getting plenty to eat.
Contact your first aider or site staff if you are not feeling well.
Participants and the people in their households should not have any instance of fever, vomiting or
diarrhea in the 24 hours before camp. If someone gets sick at camp, they should be isolated from
others immediately. Anyone with a fever should be sent home.
Intruders
At our Balboa Campus and Escondido Program Center, keep gates closed at all times and locked at
night. Discuss with campers what to do if they see a stranger around camp: Tell an adult. If an
intruder/stranger appears non-threatening, an adult should ask, “May I help you?” and direct
them off-site if necessary. If they have camp business, the adult should contact staff or the
encampment director for an escort.
Contact 911, staff, encampment director and/or facility manager immediately if suspicious
persons are spotted.
Cooking at camp
Most cabin kitchens have basic cooking utensils, pots and pans. Equipment may be used and
should be washed, dried and stored appropriately. At Balboa, there is no cooking of raw meat
indoors per City of San Diego permitting regulations. Group food service via the industrial
kitchens at the Julian camps is provided by staff cooks.
1. Food shall be stored in appropriate food storage areas. Food should not be stored on the
floor. Food should be stored at a temperature range of 40-140 degrees Fahrenheit for as
short a time as possible.
2. Smoking is not permitted in any food preparation or serving area.
3. Garbage containers in the kitchen and dining areas shall be kept covered except when in
continuous use.
4. All dishes shall be scraped clear of food particles.
5. Dishes shall be washed using the three-sink method (hot soap water wash, hot clear water
rinse, boiling water rinse or chemical disinfectant rinse). All dishes shall be air-dried. Clean
and sanitize all food contact surfaces after each use.
6. All food service utensils shall be returned to the appropriate storage location to protect
them from dust and contamination between uses. Only clean and sanitized utensils and
equipment should be used for food preparation.
7. Temperature of refrigerators should be monitored daily and recorded on the chart posted.
Temperatures should be no higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Notify council staff of any
problems.
8. The kitchen shall be cleaned according to instructions provided before leaving the site.
Lice
Never share hats, brushes, hair ties, bandanas, etc. No one with active lice infestations should
attend.
Lost or missing child
In the event a child is missing, immediately notify the event director. Search for 5 minutes,
including in other groups, in sleeping bags, trails, bathrooms, dining areas, etc. All searchers
should use the buddy system.
After 5 minutes, contact site staff or call the Girl Scout emergency line. If the child is not found
after 15 minutes, call 911 and continue searching. After emergency personnel arrive, Girl Scout
staff (or designated adult) should notify parents or guardians.
Complete an Accident/Incident Report form documenting what happened. Have all parties
involved provided a written description of the search efforts and attach to the report.
Major injuries and accidents
If you are the adult or first aider at the scene:
1. Do not rush or panic.
2. Designate someone to call 911 and someone else to contact site staff or call the council
emergency line.
3. If it is a large group event, contact the director and/or health supervisor as quickly as
possible.
4. The adult with the highest level of certification should aid injured parties. Give priority
attention to caring for the needs of the victim.
5. Delegate another adult to ensure safety of the other children by taking them away from the
immediate scene and organizing singing, games or other activities.
6. Notify parents as soon as possible once the immediate emergency subsides.
7. Be sure to accurately fill out the Accident/Incident Report soon after the event. Report
emergencies and “near misses” even if no injury resulted.
8. If contacted by the media, indicate as pleasantly as possible that the reporter must speak to
the council spokesperson and that you cannot comment.
Mosquitoes
When in an area where mosquitoes are present, wear long sleeves, long pants, socks and closed
shoes, and use repellants on exposed skin. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, April
through October.
Pets
Site users and volunteers may not bring dogs, cats or other pets onto Girl Scout property, with the
exception of service animals. Pets belonging to full-time staff must be under control and on a 6’
leash whenever site users are present.
Poison oak
We keep poison oak off the camp trails as much as possible, but it grows quickly. Stay on the
trails! Learn to identify the “leaves of three” that grow as a shrub or vine. They are shiny green in
spring and red in the fall. Do not touch plants you cannot identify.
If exposed, wash skin surfaces with soap and cold water, rinsing frequently. Wash all exposed
clothes, tools or anything else that could have touched the oil. Symptoms can appear up to a week
after exposure. See your first aider or site staff if you believe you may have poison oak.
Restricted areas
Stay on marked trails and roads at all times to avoid falls, poison oak and to prevent erosion and
disturbance to plant life. Stay out of buildings not assigned to your group.
Sleeping arrangements
Where beds are provided, they are placed to meet health department and fire marshal standards.
If placing mats on the floor, please remember there is to be no head-to-head sleeping. All mats
should be placed 30” apart, with an aisle separating rows. All participants must sleep in their own
bed.
Smoking and vaping
There are very limited smoking/vaping areas on our property. Smoking of marijuana is prohibited
on our property regardless of its recreational or medicinal legal status. Information on designated
smoking areas will be included in confirmation packets. It is never acceptable to smoke in the
presence of members under 18.
Snakes
Most bites occur when people try to handle a snake. Snakes naturally defend themselves when
cornered or surprised. Never step or reach into holes, behind or under logs, etc., where you cannot
see. Stay on the trail! Hikers in front of the line should say “Freeze!” and point at a snake on the
trail to alert the other hikers. If bitten, call 911 immediately and provide care until help arrives.
Stinging insects
Bees, yellow jackets and wasps are frequent visitors to our properties. If stung, see your first aider
for care. If someone with an allergy is stung, call 911 immediately and provide care until help
arrives.
Supervision
All troops or groups must provide their own qualified adult supervision of youth, according to
ratios found in Volunteer Essentials and the Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Ticks
Ticks can carry serious illnesses and are found at the Julian camps. Stay on the trail, wear long
pants, and check for ticks after hiking.
Toxins
Do not bring your own cleaning supplies or chemicals to camp. Keep medications locked and out
of reach of children. Teach children never to put leaves, stems, bark, seed, nuts or berries from
any plant into their mouths, unless permitted by qualified camp staff. See your first aider or site
staff if anyone accidentally ingests a potential toxin.
Valuables and belongings
Groups are discouraged from bringing valuables, including electronics, personal sports
equipment, etc.
Waterfront rules
Swimming is allowed only when the Camp Winacka pool is open and only under the supervision of
an adult (18 years or older) holding current lifeguard certification and CPR and First Aid
certifications.
There will be one lifeguard (over 18 years of age) for every 25 swimmers. One adult (over 18 years
old) watcher is required per every 10 swimmers. For 26-50 swimmers, one of the lifeguards must
be an adult (the other can be 16 years or older). All waterfront personnel must be out of the water
supervising swimmers.
Lifeguards are responsible for sharing Camp Winacka pool rules with all swimmers and ensuring
compliance with the Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Weather and hazardous conditions
Remember, our rental facilities are exposed sites, subject to changing weather conditions. We
reserve the right to cancel reservations due to hazardous site conditions, or other conditions
beyond our control. In such cases, all fees will be refunded.
Training Requirements
Outdoor training
Girl Scouts San Diego members must have at least one adult attending with the appropriate level
of outdoor training, along with Core Leadership training (Getting Started with Your Troop and
Intro to Girl Scouts).
Girl Scouts from other councils should have equivalent training and permission from their own
council.
Outside groups do not require Girl Scout training, but will have additional regulations and
orientation during their stay.
Other required training
First Aid/CPR
All groups using council properties must provide a First Aider currently certified in first aid and
CPR. For requirements based on group size and acceptable training providers, refer to Volunteer
Essentials, chapter 4 (Safety-Wise). This document is posted at sdgirlscouts.org/safety.
Encampment Director Training
Our Encampment Director Training class is required for Girl Scout groups camping with three or
more troops, and all service unit encampments. This training is required before the event and is
recommended before planning starts.
To find out more or register online, visit sdgirlscouts.org/training. Questions? Connect with your
local activity consultant, or email training@sdgirlscouts.org
Global Risk Management Situations
Review these points and make them applicable to the specific event
If you are experiencing a serious situation now, call the 24-Hour Council Emergency System:
619-298-8391 – after hours, press “2” when prompted
All other situations, submit an Accident/Incident Report to council on the next business day.
GC:jsr PGO-0123 3/08/17
Situation
Prevention or Preparation
Action or Response
Lost
Person
Active adult monitoring
Buddy system
Identifying clothing
Clearly marked activity areas or
boundaries
Regular check in times
Search immediate area for 5 minutes; Interview
friends
Gather group at central location, inform other
adults, search an additional 15 minutes
After 20 minutes call authorities and widen
search
Work with local authorities until person is
found
Activity
Injury
Clear instructions from activity leaders
Appropriate equipment
Equipment check
Designated area for participation
Qualified adult supervision for each
activity
First aider available to help
First aid kit stocked and handy
Notify on-site first aider, who will take primary
assessment
If minor, treat with basic first aid and record as
accident/incident
If in need of immediate medical support call 911
and notify other adults
Supervise other girls away from injured person
Medical
Emergency
All participants have adult and child
health history forms
Special needs information gathered
ahead of time
First aider available to help
First aid kit stocked and handy
Accommodations made for preexisting
conditions
Notify first aider, who will take primary
assessment
If minor, treat with basic first aid and record as
accident/incident
If in need of immediate medical support, call 911
Notify other adults to help direct EMS to victim
Supervise other girls away from ill person
Natural
Disaster
Review procedures with on-site
personnel
Review with volunteer staff at orientation
meeting
Talk with on-site staff
Work with local authorities
Follow emergency/evacuation plan
Intruder
Identifying wrist bands or name tags
Ensure site security and expectations
with other adults
Proactively ask unknown persons if they need
assistance
Report any suspicious activity to the on-site
staff or authorities
Theft
Review principles of Girl Scout Promise
and Law
Establish expectations with any other
groups
Secure personal items when possible
Encourage participants to leave
unnecessary valuables at home
Leader takes charge of all cash
Encourage victim to re-check belongings
Report to on-site staff and/or authorities
Take down full description of the stolen item/s
Vehicle
Accident
Keep vehicles insured and in good
working order
Only background-checked GS members
transport girls
Follow listed standards in Volunteer
Essentials
Everyone wears seat belts
Pull over to a safe place, if possible
Care for any injured parties; follow steps for
activity injury, above
Contact authorities if there are injuries or severe
damage to vehicles
Exchange basic insurance and contact
information with other driver(s)
1231 Upas St., San Diego, CA 92103-5199 • 619-298-8391 • 800-643-4798
3050 Las Palmas, Escondido, CA 92025 • 760-739-0860
5315 Avenida Encinas, Suite 100, Carlsbad CA 92011 • 760-444-9011
sdgirlscouts.org
Girl Scout Vision
To be the world’s best
leadership experience
for girls.
CS
PGO-0224W 8/8/21
